Nearly 20 years after capturing an Olympic gold medal in figure skating, Kristi Yamaguchi continues to embrace, and conquer, new challenges.
In 2008, the East Bay native became the Season 6 celebrity champion of “Dancing With the Stars.” And now, she’s taking on children’s literature as the author of “Dream Big, Little Pig,” an inspirational tale of determination and perseverance.
The book, aimed at children ages 3 to 10, focuses on Poppy, a “pot-bellied, waddling, toddling” porker who dreams of becoming a star. She tries several activities, including ballet and singing, before she finds her true passion as an ice skater. A sequel is already in the works.
Yamaguchi, who with husband Bret Hedican, has two daughters — Keara, 7, and Emma, 5 — will read from “Dream Big” during a free event Thursday afternoon at the Walnut Creek Library. Books will also be available for signing.
Q What spurred you to write the book?
A Mostly, I was influenced by our children, who were at the perfect age for a book like this. It was something I’ve always wanted to do and they led me into taking the next step.
Q Did your daughters offer any advice during the writing process?
A Keara actually came up with the name Poppy. That’s her claim to fame. And Emma was the name I gave to Poppy’s best friend. They were the perfect test audience for me. When the story held their attention — before being illustrated — I knew I was on the right track.
Q Why a pig?
A I’ve always loved them. I was born in the Year of the Pig. I collected pig (figurines) as a child and one of my favorite characters was Miss Piggy. I just thought she was so fun, vivacious, colorful and glamorous.
Q What kind of literature did you enjoy as a youngster?
A I was into a mixture of things. I really loved “Anne of Green Gables.” And I was a big fan of “A Wrinkle in Time,” which creeped me out, but also fascinated me. I liked stories full of imagination that took me to another place.
Q What is your advice to parents of children who don’t like to read?
A Get help with the material. Find a subject that interests them. I know my mom used to worry about my brother because practically all he would read about is basketball and Michael Jordan. But his teacher said, ‘That’s OK. Let him. At least he’s reading.’ Sometimes it’s all about finding the right subject.
Q When reading your book to kids at public appearances, what about Poppy resonates with them?
A She has a fun personality, a positive attitude. They like how she’s persistent and doesn’t give up. Plus, I think her frilly outfits are a big hit with little girls.
Q How would Poppy fare on “Dancing With the Stars”?
A She’s a little clumsy, so she would have her challenges. She would probably start slowly and improve as she went along — maybe even make the finals, thanks to her persistence. And with her fun personality, she would definitely win over the fans.
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LIBRARY EVENT
WHO: Kristi Yamaguchi
WHAT: A reading of her children’s book, “Dream Big, Little Pig,” in support of the iVillage PBS Kids Summer Reading Challenge (www.ivillage.com/pbs). The program is for children ages 3-10; adults must be accompanied by a child. To sign up for the event, go to www.wclibrary.org.
WHERE: The Walnut Creek Library, 1644 N. Broadway Ave.
WHEN: 3:30-4:15 p.m. Thursday
